Etruscan Wonders

Introduction

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Before Rome became a Republic and then the Roman Empire, it was a small city state ruled by seven legendary kings, the last three being Etruscan and ending with Tarquin the Proud- the final Etruscan king who was expelled in 509 BC.

For about 5 centuries central Italy was known as Etruria, and it was ruled by the ancient civilization called the Etruscans. Where they came from nobody knows with absolute certainty, much of their language and history is still a mystery, but their technical and cultural advancements continue to inspire awe to this day.

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On this Etruscan Wonderstour you have the opportunity to explore one of the most unique tombs in the world, the painted tombs of the Monterozzi Necropolis in Tarquinia, followed by a visit to the nearby museum to see the many artifacts that were discovered in these tombs.

Lunch and a visit to the lovely town of Tuscania that was once an Etruscan settlement, and renowned for its picturesque valley, medieval structures, excellent local cuisine, and serene atmosphere.

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Day Tour from Rome: Your English speaking Chauffeur will meet you at your hotel accommodation at 8:30 AM. The tour concludes with your arrival back to your hotel at approximately 5:00 PM

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Shore Excursion from Civitavecchia: Your English speaking Chauffeur will meet you right on the Pier next to your cruise ship in Civitavecchia at 8:30 AM. The tour concludes with your arrival back to your ship at approximately 5:00 PM

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Tour Itinerary

Tour Info

Duration: Departure from:

Tour Description

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Monterozzi Necropolis in Tarquinia

This Etruscan necropolis contains about 6,000 tombs from as far back as 7th century BC, and about 200 tombs were originally decorated with beautiful frescoes, a vibrant pictorial depiction of the life of these ancient Etruscans. Today, about a dozen of these remarkable tombs are open at a time in effort to preserve them.

As you descend a flight of stairs to each underground tomb, you will step back in time and into the extraordinary world of the ancient Etruscans as they reveal through their paintings their daily life activities, special ceremonies, banquets, mythologies, and artistic abilities.

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There are no other tombs like these in the world, and it’s no wonder the Monterozzi Necropolis has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The nearby National Museum in Tarquinia houses a wonderful collection of precious artifacts that were excavated from the Monterozzi necropolis, giving you a more complete understanding of this formidable ancient civilization.

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Tuscania

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From here you will journey across ancient “Etruria” to your next destination, Tuscania.

Although evidence of humans living in this area dates back to the Neolithic era, legends surrounding Tuscania’s origin are quite fascinating. One legend attributes Tuscania’s foundation to the son of Aeneas, a Trojan hero of Greco-Roman mythology.

Another legend tell us that Tuscania was founded by Tusco, the son of Hercules and Araxes.

No matter who founded Tuscania, by 7th -6th century BC, it played a significant rome in ancient Etruria as it became a center for maritime trade.

The Tuscania we see today is the product of the medieval era with fortified walls and towers, but its deep Etruscan roots are evident in the many ancient necropolis and artifacts have also been discovered here.

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The monument church of Saint Peter is worth a visit. It dates back to 8th century, with renovations taken place in 11th-12 centuries.

Not to be missed is Parco Torre di Lavello with a breathtaking panoramic view of the majestic landscape that inspired poets.

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From here you will enjoy a relaxing drive through the ancient lands of the Etruscans back to your accommodation in Rome or cruise ship in Civitavecchia.

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Thank you for your interest in our tours. We look forward to helping you create an unforgettable holiday in Italy!

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Important Information

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Please Read and AcceptTerms of Serviceprior to booking tour or transfer services.

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This tour is NOT offered on Mondays as the Monterozzi Necropolis and Museum in Tarquinia are closed for visits.

What is NOT included in the price of this Etruscan Wonders Tour?

Price does not include: lunch, gratuities, entry tickets to the necropolis and museum, private licensed tour guide if hired separately, or any other personal customer expenses.

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Entry Tickets

The current price of entry tickets to Tarquinia Monterozzi Necropolis and Museum is 8 Euros per person. Tickets are purchased on site upon arrival.

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Your Tour Chauffeur

On this tour you are provided with an English speaking Chauffeur who is not a licensed Tour Guide. Only locally licensed tour guides can guide and accompany guests to sightsee. In order to be in compliance with Italian laws, Chauffeurs are required to remain with the vehicle while you sightsee.

If you are pleased with the service you received from your chauffeur, a 10-15% gratuity is greatly appreciated.

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Private Licensed Tour Guide in Tarquinia

If you wish to book a private guide for your Tarquinia necropolis visit please inquire within for price quote and reservation.

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Cancellation Policy:

We kindly ask that all tours and services be cancelled in writing via email at least 7 days prior to service date. Cancellations by phone or through a 3rd party are not accepted.

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Tips

Comfortable clothes and walking shoes are recommended on this tour.

Please be sure you can climb a flight of stairs to visit each tomb.

The painted tombs are sealed off and protected in a climate controlled environment. They can be viewed through a glass window. Push the light button to the right to turn on the light inside the tomb to enjoy the beautiful frescoes.

There are several tombs open at a time, while others are closed for preservation. Tombs available for visits routinely alternate, so when guests re-visit the necropolis at later dates they may find tombs that were closed before before open for visits, and vice versa.

Signs with images and information are posted in English and Italian next to each tomb so visitors can learn more about the tombs and select which tombs they wish to visit.

Be sure to bring your camera for souvenir photos of the beautiful places you will visit.